Barsana Tourism and Travel Guide

Journey To Barsana The Divine Place Of Origin Of Sri Radha.

History of Barsana -

Barsana is known as the birthplace of Radha, the eternal consort of Sri Krishna. It is famous as a tourist place near Delhi. It is known for Lath Mar Holi which recreates events from Sri Krishna’s life. 

Location of Barsana-

Barsana is located 48 km away from Vrindavan and about 45 km from Mathura. It is a town in the Nagar panchayat of Mathura district in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The town is surrounded by hills on all four sides. All of them are adorned by temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. 

Fairs and Festivals in Barsana -

The town is well known for a celebration known as Lath Mar Holi. It is the recreation of a famous Hindu legend which tells of Krishna who was from adjoining Nandgaon visiting Barsana to meet Radha. During his teasing, she was offended and drove him out in anger. In keeping with the legend men from Nandgaon visit the town of Barsana and are greeted by women wielding lathis. Those unfortunate men who are captured have to put on women’s clothing and dance in public. Next day women from Barsana visit Nandgaon village and play Holi.  Radha Ashtami is also celebrated on the ninth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada in August.

Tourist Attractions in Barsana-

Some of the more eminent temples of Barsana are listed below.

1. Shriji Temple also known as Ladli Ji Temple – Shriji is another name of Radha. It is one of the most ancient temples in Barsana and is said to have been first built 5000 years back. It is located on the Bhanugarh Hill and is made of red stone. The modern temple was built by a Vaishnavite named Narayan Bhatt during the reign of Akbar. The temple architecture has evident influences from the Mughal period.
2. Radha Kushalbihari Temple – A Rajput monarch who was an ardent devotee of Radha and Krishna built this temple. It is said that before the temple was opened Radha came in a dream to the king and asked him not to inaugurate the temple since it is not where she was born. The king then built another temple for her in her birthplace. There is a lovely idol of Sri Radha in center of the temple.
3. Dan Bihari Temple – This temple is associated with a famous legend. The story goes that a poor Brahmin had no means to arrange for his daughter’s wedding and when he prayed to Krishna he arranged for gold which was of equal weight to Radha and gifted it to him.

How to Reach Barsana -

To reach Barsana from Vrindavan or Mathura by road the best way is to hire a car. It is a day or half day trip from Mathura. The route passes through Govardhan Parvat.

Best Time To Visit Barsana -

Barsana is famous for its Holi festival. It is best visited in spring. However being very close to Vrindavan and Mathura it can be visited at any time of the year when one goes on pilgrimage.